If you’re searching for the perfect location for your next ink, consider getting a back-of-the-neck tattoo, which can easily be hidden by hair or shown off to the world like a piece of permanent jewelry, depending on your mood. If you’re a first-timer when it comes to getting inked, this area makes sense for a number of different reasons. The location is a relatively small canvas, making the back of neck an ideal spot for a little ink art that may look out of place against larger areas of the body. And while any tattoo will come with a certain level of pain, this spot is considered to be one of the less-painful ones, making it a friendly first-time tattoo spot. Additionally, back-of-the-neck tattoos are easily covered, so they’re an ideal choice if you don’t want an overtly visible piece. When you are looking to show off your ink, opt for an updo or side fishtail braid to complement your art.
To inspire you to consider the back of the neck for your next (or hey, first) tattoo, we’ve picked some of the best back-of-neck tattoo ideas from Instagram. We’ve rounded up small neck tattoos, larger designs, and everything in between. Read on to see our favorites.